Updated 2026-03-30
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): Rules & Calculator
When you must start withdrawing and how to minimize the tax impact
Required Minimum Distributions force you to withdraw from your Traditional 401(k) starting at age 73 (or 75 if born 1960+). Roth 401(k) accounts are exempt from RMDs starting 2024 under SECURE 2.0.
RMD Start Ages (SECURE 2.0)
| Birth Year | RMD Start Age | First RMD Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 or earlier | 72 (already started) | April 1 after turning 72 |
| 1951-1959 | 73 | April 1 after turning 73 |
| 1960 or later | 75 | April 1 after turning 75 |
How to Calculate Your RMD
Divide your December 31 account balance by the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table factor for your age. For example, at age 73 the factor is 26.5, so a $500,000 balance requires an RMD of $18,868. Use our RMD calculator for your specific situation.
Missed RMD Penalty
SECURE 2.0 reduced the penalty for missed RMDs from 50% to 25% of the shortfall. If corrected within 2 years, the penalty drops to 10%. You can request a penalty waiver from the IRS by filing Form 5329 with a reasonable explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Starting in 2024, SECURE 2.0 eliminated RMDs for Roth 401(k) accounts. Previously, Roth 401(k) accounts required RMDs even though Roth IRAs did not. This change makes Roth 401(k) accounts more attractive for estate planning.
Yes, if you are still employed and do not own more than 5% of the company. The still-working exception lets you delay RMDs from your current employer 401(k) until you retire. It does not apply to IRAs or 401(k)s from former employers.
You can make Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) of up to $105,000 per year from an IRA directly to charity, satisfying your RMD without increasing taxable income. QCDs are not available directly from 401(k) plans - you must roll to an IRA first.
Pavlo Pyskunov
Managing Director & Investment Fund Director
Pavlo Pyskunov analyzes employer-sponsored retirement plans using IRS publications and DOL Form 5500 filings, helping workers maximize their 401(k) savings through data-driven guidance.
Last updated: 2026-03-30